Stroke is one of the top 5 leading cause of death in the United States. One person dies every 4 minutes from these common and dangerous health issue. About 800,000 people suffer from a stroke each year and about one every 4 seconds. The only diseases that are more deadly are heart disease, cancer and chronic lower respiratory.Strokes occur due to problems with the blood supply to the brain; either the blood supply is blocked or a blood vessel within the brain ruptures. A stroke is a medical emergency, and treatment must be sought as quickly as possible.Here are some key points about stroke. More detail and supporting information is in the main article.

Treatment varies from the type of stroke.

While having a stroke, the brain doesn't get enough oxygen or nutrients, resulting in dead brain cells.

The most sufficient method to preventing strokes is through living a healthy lifestyle.

There are three main types of stroke: hemorrhagic strokes, transient ischemic attacks and ischemic strokes.

Ischemic strokes are resulted by a blocking or narrowing of arteries to the brain.

Ischemic strokes can be treated by using 'clot-busting' drugs.

Hemorrhagic strokes are caused by blood vessels in and around the brain breaking or leaking.

Hemorrhagic strokes can be managed with surgery to fix or block blood vessel weaknesses.

Strokes have to be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible to minimize the amount of brain damage.

The American Stroke Association came up with an easy acronym to help people identify strokes in the most easy and timely manner. Remembering "F.A.S.T" can help save lives daily.